Norwich Copies Plus LLC located in the center of Norwich, at the intersection of Main and Broad streets, is looking for a new owner. The business was established in 2019 by Chris Hayes, Christine Walker and Missy Hayes. (Submitted photo)

NORWICH - Norwich Copies Plus LLC, a cornerstone of downtown Norwich at the intersection of Main and Broad streets, is looking for a new owner.

With the current owners retiring, the business is known for serving the community’s office needs.

The business was established in 2019 when Christine Walker, then the manager of the location for Hummel’s Office Plus, teamed up with Missy and Chris Hayes to keep the store open after the company decided to close their Norwich branch.

The Hayes family has operated Hayes Office Products from the same site since the mid-1950s. The collaboration ensured the business stayed in the local community.

“Norwich Copies Plus is more than a store—it’s a resource for the community,” said Chris Hayes. "Our real product is convenience, location, and personalized customer service, summed up in our tagline: ‘Where locals go to get things done.’”

The location at 6 East Main Street has aided the business’s success, benefiting from strong vehicle and pedestrian traffic, visibility, and nearby public parking.

The site has supported decades of continuous retail operations and has become a vital part of downtown Norwich.

Over the years, Norwich Copies Plus evolved to adapt to changes in consumer behavior and technology. The business diversified to include UPS and FedEx shipping, Amazon returns, printing and copying services, greeting cards and gifts, and office supplies.

By leveraging technology, the business has become less reliant on walk-in inventory sales and more focused on providing specialized services, such as regional office furniture sales and “last mile” delivery solutions, explained Hayes.

Hayes identified several opportunities for future growth under new ownership. These include enhancing the business’s marketing through online and social media, expanding in-store printing services with large-format color printing, partnering with additional delivery services, and potentially extending hours to include Saturdays.

He also highlighted the importance of the new owner possessing strong customer service and team-building skills, financial management experience, and the discipline to maintain the business’s consistent operations.

“The next owner needs to recognize that Norwich Copies Plus isn’t just about selling office supplies. It’s about serving the community, creating jobs, and keeping downtown vibrant,” Hayes said.

The business has faced challenges common to many traditional retailers, particularly changes in technology and consumer habits. However, Hayes believes the business’s ability to adapt and leverage these changes has allowed it to remain competitive and relevant.

Norwich Copies Plus has deep roots in the community. Since 1988, the Hayes family has been associated with the location, starting when Bob and Jean Hayes purchased Sumner’s Business Supplies and Equipment from the Sumner family who operated there since the mid-1950s. Their investment in the historic 1895 Cook Building laid the foundation for decades of successful retail business.

Parties interested in purchasing Norwich Copies Plus can visit the store at 6 East Main Street, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., to sign a non-disclosure agreement and receive a detailed listing packet with operational history and projections. Additional inquiries can be directed to Chris Hayes at chayes@hummelsop.com.

For more information, contact Norwich Copies Plus at 607-334-8222 or visit during business hours.